Jerusalem – Holy City and Modern Metropolis

High up in the Judean Hills, at the crossroads between Asia, Europe and Africa at the intersection of ancient trade routes, Jerusalem presents a unique combination of ancient history, spiritual sanctity and colourful cultures. By Helen Cleary

Established 3000 years ago, Jerusalem is a fascinating blend of contrasts and diversity. It is a city where old and new, holy and secular, nature and architecture mix in magical harmony.

For thousands of years, believers in three of the world‘s major religions have come to Jerusalem to worship at the holy sites in the walled Old City. Jews travel to Jerusalem to visit the Western (or Wailing) Wall, a remnant of the Second Temple the most sacred place of Judaism. Christians are drawn to Jerusalem to walk the Stations of the Cross on Via Dolorosa and to visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre at Golgotha. On top of Temple Mount are the golden Dome of the Rock and the silver-domed Al-Aqsa Mosque – Islam’s holiest sites after Mecca and Medina.

The colourful souks and bazaars in the narrow streets of the Muslim, Jewish, Christian, and Armenian quarters in the Old City (UNESCO list) create an “Arabian Nights” atmosphere. 
As one of the oldest cities in the world, Jerusalem has a world-class collection of museums and renowned archaeological sites. 
The Archaeological Park and the Davidson Centre follow events spanning some 5,000 years. Here you find graves from the period of the First Temple, Herodian streets and shops, Roman baths, Byzantine mosaics and buildings constructed by the Crusaders. 

The Israel Museum features various facets of Jewish history, international art, a sculpture garden and the Shrine of the Book with the Dead Sea Scrolls.

The Bible Lands Museum contains a unique collection depicting the cultures and civilisations of the ancient lands of the Bible. The Tower of David Museum in the magnificently restored ancient Citadel first constructed by King Herod 2,000 years ago traces Jerusalem’s long and eventful history. The panoramic route along the Citadel towers offers beautiful views of the city.

Yad Vashem is a memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. 
Jerusalem, however, is not just a journey back in time, it is a vibrant modern city with countless cultural and entertainment activities.